Florida Keys Destination Overview

The Florida Keys are located at the south end of the Florida Mainland and stretch into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean and the Florida Bay. The Keys are comprised of a chain of islands that make up a variety of unique regions, each of which boasts numerous activities that outdoor explorers are sure to love. While the Keys feature plenty of landlocked activities, many travelers stop by to enjoy the marine experience provided by beaches.

Revisit History in Key West

Key West is probably the most diverse region of the Florida Keys. It is located on the southernmost tip of the Keys and is home to a number of entertainment options. History buffs are sure to find thrilling opportunities in Key West to expand their knowledge.

Ernest Hemingway House

Constructed in 1851, the Ernest Hemingway House was home to the famous American author from 1931 to 1939. Hemingway may have been born in Illinois, but he chose Key West as his primary living space. Visitors can tour the site to learn more about the author's life and see where he drew some of his inspiration. Furthermore, the house is famous for its cats. Many of these felines have six toes, and if they don't, they carry the gene to give to their offspring. All the tour guides know the cats' names and personalities. The felines are truly the stars of the property. If the architectural history and cats don't get you, you may like the site as a destination for a wedding, as many of the Hemingway House visitors do.

Shipwreck Trail

Littered off the coast of the Florida Keys is a trail of shipwrecks. Nine total seafaring vessels found their final home beneath the ocean's surface. While they may no long sail, the ships are now home to budding reefs and plenty of history. Visitors can scuba dive along the trail to see how the boats have become part of their marine habitats. Visitors should first pick up the guide, which lists the location of the vessels and a bit of background information. Several of the wrecks are located off the coast of Key West.

Dive in with Marine Life in Marathon

Marathon is home to the Seven Mile Bridge, which spans over the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors who drive across this feat of engineering will have a scenic view of Gulf and the islands that dot it. Not only that, but Marathon is also home to numerous opportunities to engage with marine life.

The Turtle Hospital

Located in Marathon, the Turtle Hospital is the only veterinarian-certified hospital of its kind in the world. The nonprofit organization rescues injured sea turtles, nurses them to health, and then releases them back into their natural habitat. The group also performs outreach work in the community to bring awareness to conservation issues. Furthermore, the Turtle Hospital staff works to push legislation that keeps waters clean. Visitors can tour the hospital, learn about sea turtles and see the animals up close.

Dolphin Research Center

The Dolphin Research Center is a nonprofit organization that studies and houses sea lions and dolphins. By observing the animals, researchers can better understand them and what they need to survive in the wild. The organization promotes conservation and provides the community with opportunities to engage with the animals. Visitors can get up close and personal with dolphins, attend educational lectures and observe research practices. Such lessons are geared toward people of any age group.

Cast a Line in Islamorada

Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is the premier destination for fishermen of all skill levels. In fact, people catch more fish per capita here than anywhere else on the planet. With such a strong reputation for fishing, Islamorada is home to a fleet of charter boats all ready to embark with excited passengers.

Bud N' Mary's Fishing Marina

Anglers can have a chance to catch some of Florida's native fish with the help of Bud N' Mary's Fishing Marina. The company provides charter boats captained by a knowledgeable fisherman. Since the company was founding in 1944, the company has expanded to more than 40 captains and guides. The staff takes visitors out into the water of the Florida Keys to catch such fish as Florida dolphin (aka Mahi Mahi), lobster, shark and swordfish. In addition, visitors can charter a boat for a tour of the area.

Gold Reserve Sports Fishing

Run by Caption Kevin Brown, Gold Reserve Sports Fishing provides visitors with the opportunity to explore Islamorada and its fishing scene. Capt. Brown has fished all over the U.S. and in the Gulf of Mexico. He shares his experience with passengers, helping them have a successful fishing trip. Gold Reserve Sports Fishing focuses on ensuring passengers have a fun time and that they fill their fish boxes by the conclusion of the trip.

HomeAway is the world leader in vacation rentals with over 1 million listings. We offer the largest selection of properties for any travel occasion and every budget. We're committed to helping families and friends find a perfect vacation rental to create unforgettable travel experiences together.